6 Trades We Wish We Had Seen at the 2026 NFL Trade Deadline

Key Points:

• The NFL trade deadline saw several significant moves, including the Chicago Bears acquiring Pro Bowl defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons and the Jacksonville Jaguars bolstering their defense with safety Jessie Bates III and defensive tackle Jordan Davis using multiple future draft picks.
• Notable trades that did not occur included the New York Giants' withdrawn offer for Colts running back Jonathan Taylor and the Los Angeles Rams' decision not to pursue wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. from the Jaguars, despite clear needs in those positions.
• The Green Bay Packers acquired running back Tony Pollard from the Tennessee Titans for a 2027 third-round pick, aiming to improve their struggling rushing attack amid injuries and offensive line issues.
• The San Francisco 49ers missed an opportunity to strengthen their pass rush by not acquiring edge rusher Danielle Hunter from the Houston Texans, who are still hopeful for a playoff push despite a poor start.
• The Los Angeles Chargers chose not to trade veteran edge rusher Khalil Mack despite an 0-8 start, prioritizing leadership and culture over acquiring draft capital, while the Detroit Lions missed out on adding safety Budda Baker from the Arizona Cardinals, who declined offers from playoff contenders.